How to Make More Money According to a Pro

1. How is it running a business as a wife-and-husband team, with five children no less!

We capitalize on each other's strengths, and we help each other grow in our respective areas. I try to get comfortable with the things that he's good at and he tries to get comfortable with the paperwork – and the things that I'm a little bit more good at, and being aware of those responsibilities. So as long as we do that, things work out well.

2. What’s a recent small win for you and your business?

My husband recently learned how to repair a lot of different things. He paid attention to what the repairmen we hired to do the work were doing. Our top loaders, our most popular washing machine, takes a lot of wear and tear. They're not the easiest to maintain. My husband has learned how to fix them. That's a small win.

The second one, because I said I capitalize on his strengths and my strengths, is I've been much better about working with accounting software. I used Verizon Small Business resources to learn how to make our books easier.

3. Who is a woman in business that you look up to and why?

My husband and I both agree that the women who contract with us for our wash/dry/fold – who we were able to springboard with support from the Verizon grant program – have inspired us because they were homeless coming out of the pandemic. They were able to come into our establishment and start their own small business, and that's something that we are super proud of these women for, for taking the steps that they did to start their own small business.

4. What's a book, podcast, or resource that has made an impact on you as an entrepreneur?

Before 2018, my husband bought this DVD set by Danny D'Angelo, the KING of Laundry, and we were able to learn about the business just from sitting down and listening to him. A few years later, my husband was on his podcast! He was really, really inspirational to us.

5. How has the Verizon Small Business program helped propel your business forward?

The free resources are always a benefit because you're not obligated to do anything other than taking the time to seek out information. We're just real people and I feel like Verizon is a partnership with us in small business, supporting us, and believing in us. We've been able to expand our business because Verizon gave us a shot to do that. And that's amazing.

Learn more about the free Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program and Team J&S.

Illustration by Daniela Jordan-Villaveces.

INTJ ("The Architect")

You’re analytical, introverted, and quick to learn new topics that interest you. While you enjoy working on big problems, you’re not a people person and you’re fiercely independent. One of your core strengths is to take complex topics and turn them into actionable strategies. You’d thrive as a business consultant, technology consultant, or freelance writer.

INTP ("The Logician")

As a Logician, you’re creative, full of ideas, and innovative -- a perfect match for many side hustles. At the same time, while you love finding solutions to problems, you don’t necessarily want to work on the nitty-gritty of turning your vision into reality. Plus, as an introvert, you’d rather avoid wasting time on small talk. Look for side hustles such as innovation consulting, starting a software business, and tutoring.

ENTJ ("The Commander")

You’re a natural leader with a healthy dose of confidence. You strongly believe in your goals and have a knack for thinking strategically and holding a long-term focus. With these characteristics in mind, some of the top side hustles for you are executive coaching, corporate strategy consulting, and confidence coaching.

ENTP ("The Debater")

ENTPs are known for thinking big and questioning the status quo. You’re someone who knows how to connect different ideas to prove your point and has a great sense of humor. You could make it big as a sales consultant, speaking coach, Substack newsletter writer, or podcaster.

INFJ ("The Advocate")

With a deep sense of idealism and integrity, you’re passionate about leaving a lasting impact. You’re big on uplifting and helping others and you value meaningful relationships with those around you. Why not make your side hustle your mission? Some top ideas for you are non-profit consulting, photography, and life coaching.

INFP ("The Mediator")

You’re imaginative and empathetic to the core with a strong need for creative self-expression. Your side business can be a great source of purpose for you, but make sure you take action and actually get it off the ground. After all, this personality type often stays stuck in daydreaming rather than taking steps to fulfill their dreams. A few side hustle ideas include freelance copywriting, marketing consulting, or designing your own jewelry.

ENFJ ("The Protagonist")

As a popular leader with a great sense of purpose, you want to help those around you. And while you speak up for what you believe in, you always do so without coming off as pushy. Because you light up when you help others excel, side hustles like leadership coaching, career coaching, self-esteem coaching, and wedding planning will be right up your alley.

ENFP ("The Campaigner")

Outgoing and friendly, you tend to be the life of the party, while you value deep and meaningful connections with others. Because you have many ideas and interests, you might find it hard to focus on one side hustle idea. But remember, even if you decide on a side business today, you can always expand to other areas in the future. Side businesses where you get to use your people skills and creativity are likely to motivate you the most. You can use your core strengths by building a side hustle as a freelance social media manager, public relations consultant, freelance journalist, or charisma coach.

ISTJ ("The Logistician")

You thrive when you’re working towards a goal, especially if you get to do it on your own. Rules and guidelines are important to you and between facts and emotions, you always choose facts. Where you really shine is in making things run smoothly and efficiently and building long-term, consistent projects. That’s why you should consider app development, real estate investing, productivity coaching, or management consulting as side hustles.

ISFJ ("The Defender")

Even though you’re introverted, you love connecting with others. Working with people brings you a lot of joy and you go above and beyond to exceed their expectations. You could even be called a perfectionist, which makes side hustles such as virtual assistance, customer happiness consulting, relationship coaching, and interior design some of the top options for you.

ESTJ ("The Executive")

People often come to you for advice and guidance and you’re a born community builder. You’re a project manager at heart and your superpower is to turn complex challenges into simple steps. That’s why your side hustle ideas should involve some level of organization and structure. For instance, you’d stand out as a freelance project manager, freelance community manager, team-building consultant, or financial planner.

ESFJ ("The Consul")

As someone who is practical, well-organized, and social, you’re pretty much made for a side hustle where you get to work with people. And because you enjoy bringing value to those around you, starting a side business as a health coach, Airbnb host, employee motivation consultant, or HR consultant can feel especially rewarding.

ISTP ("The Virtuoso")

With your love for making things in mind, any side hustle where you get to use your practical skills is an ideal fit for you. You don’t flourish if things get too structured and you love the independence that a business can offer you. Look at side hustles such as starting a TaskRabbit or Thumbtack account, graphic design, or setting up your own repair shop.

ISFP ("The Adventurer")

You have an eye for arts and beauty and you live for creative freedom. A side hustle can give you a creative outlet if you’re not already feeling fulfilled in your 9-5. And as you don’t like to plan too much ahead (say, for your retirement), a side gig can bring in a well-needed income. For instance, start an Etsy e-commerce store, become a freelance creative director or an image consultant, or sell your illustrations online.

ESTP ("The Entrepreneur")

A side hustle can lead to a lot of excitement in your life. You’re a leader-type with plenty of energy and enthusiasm. And as you’re not a big fan of rigor or rules, stepping into the role of a business owner can be extremely fulfilling for you. Some of the top business ideas include freelance sales representative, branding consultant, and starting your own e-commerce business.

ESFP ("The Entertainer")

You know how to throw a party and you’re always there for those who need you. While you’re not particularly interested in repetitive tasks, you love working with people and making them happy. With your impeccable aesthetics, a side business such as an event planning business, a fashion brand, or a tour guiding business is an excellent choice for you.

Venice, Italy

Bali, Indonesia

Once an idyllic paradise, Bali now suffers from traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and overcrowded beaches. The island’s resources are strained under the weight of mass tourism, but there are efforts underway to promote sustainability like putting a moratorium on new hotels.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Overtourism has led to erosion and damage to this ancient Incan citadel. A quota system and mandatory guides are helping preserve this popular South American destination.

Tulum, Mexico

Once a tranquil paradise known for its pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and eco-chic vibe, Tulum has become a cautionary tale of overtourism. The surge in popularity, fueled by Instagram-worthy scenery, has brought overcrowding, environmental strain, and rising costs. The Guardianreported that locals are being pushed out by developers and despite the thinking that tourism helps local communities, poverty nearly doubled between 2015 and 2020. Local ecosystems, including fragile mangroves and coral reefs, are threatened by unchecked construction and pollution too. The local ruins have implemented stricter rules like no food or drink to limit trash and environmental impact from tourists.

Santorini, Greece

Instagram fame has turned this once-serene island into a tourist hotspot. Narrow streets are perpetually clogged, and locals are struggling with soaring costs of living due to tourism demand. The government has since capped the number of daily cruise ship visitors to keep overtourism at bay.

Cinque Terre, Italy

Known for its colorful cliffside villages and breathtaking coastal views, these once-quiet fishing towns now see millions of visitors annually, way more than they can handle. To combat issues like congestion and cruise ships, local authorities have introduced visitor caps and encourage sustainable travel to protect Cinque Terre’s charm.

Reykjavík, Iceland

Is there anyone not going to Iceland these days? A small country with breathtaking landscapes, Iceland has been overwhelmed by tourists flocking to Instagram-famous sites like the Blue Lagoon and Diamond Beach. It's best to travel during the off season (November to April) and travel to lesser known spots like the Sturlungalaug hot spring.

Maya Bay, Thailand (Phi Phi Islands)

This iconic beach, popularized by the DiCaprio film The Beach, suffered ecological devastation from hordes of visitors and anchored boats. Coral reefs were destroyed, and the beach was closed for years to allow recovery. It has since reopened after a huge revitalization project, but they have introduced visitor caps.

Kyoto, Japan

Traditionally quiet streets of this ancient capital city now teem with tourists during peak season. An increase in litter from tourists has required the city to install more trash bins to handle the crowds, and peaceful geishas are often chased down for photos. To mitigate the problem, Kyoto is considering running special buses to popular sites to reduce overcrowding, and temples and shrines are encouraging visitors to come early in the morning.

Mount Everest, Nepal

The ultimate challenge for adventurers, Mount Everest has experienced overcrowding on the slopes and at base camps, leading to dangerous conditions, with litter and human waste piling up on the mountain. Permits are now harder to get, and stricter regulations for climbers are being enforced.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Game of Thrones effect brought an influx of fans to this medieval city. Overcrowded streets and cruise ship arrivals have made it difficult to appreciate its beauty. The local government is taking steps to limit daily visitors and impose stricter cruise ship regulations.

Lisbon, Portugal

Short-term rentals dominate the housing market now, thanks to affordable flights and the digital nomad craze. This has led to skyrocketing rents and displaced locals. Historic neighborhoods are inundated with tourists, making them less charming too. Everything from public transport to waste management struggles to keep pace with the influx. I went in December and it still felt a bit like Disneyland. Douro Valley and Madeira might be more favorable destinations any time of year.